The Philadelphia Phillies are headed to the postseason for the fourth straight year and have claimed the NL East crown for the second season in a row. With a first-round bye still within reach, the team is preparing for another October run.
As part of those preparations, the Phillies are considering adjustments to their roster. While Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, and Edmundo Sosa are all set to return, there’s also a potential addition from the minors who could join the postseason mix.
According to Matt Gelb of The Athletic, if the Phillies choose to carry only 12 pitchers for the NLDS or Wild Card series, an ideal option for the 14th position player has already been identified.
Phillies could recall ‘dark horse’ outfielder for postseason roster
The Phillies could consider carrying 12 pitchers and 14 position players this postseason, and if they go that route, Johan Rojas might be the choice for that final roster spot.
As Matt Gelb notes, even with his offensive limitations, Rojas offers game-changing speed and elite defense—two assets that could prove invaluable in October. Unlike previous years when he was the starting center fielder, Rojas would now be used more strategically, maximizing his strengths rather than exposing his weaknesses.
Harrison Bader is locked in as the everyday center fielder, with Max Kepler, Brandon Marsh, Nick Castellanos, and Weston Wilson covering the corners. Otto Kemp could also provide depth from the right side if he makes the roster.
Rojas, though, fits a very specific role: a late-game defensive replacement for Castellanos or a pinch-runner when speed is needed.
He doesn’t need to be in the starting lineup to make an impact. At Triple-A, he’s batting .280 with a .695 OPS, showing that while he won’t hit for power, he can put the ball in play and use his speed to create opportunities.
Gelb suggests Rojas as a possible postseason addition, and it’s an idea worth remembering. Having already played 71 games with the Phillies this year and with prior playoff experience, Rojas could be a valuable chess piece for Rob Thomson’s October plans.
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